The 10 Best Tim Burton Movies

Tim Burton isn’t just a director — he’s an entire universe. His unmistakable style blends the macabre with the sweet, the fantastical with the melancholic. Throughout his career, he’s given us unforgettable characters, dreamlike (or nightmarish) settings, and films that leave a lasting impression. Here’s a list of his 10 best movies — the ones you have to watch at least once… or over and over again.

Beetlejuice (1988)

A recently deceased couple finds themselves stuck as ghosts in their own home. Everything’s peaceful… until a new family moves in, and they summon a very unusual spirit to scare them off: Beetlejuice. The result is a one-of-a-kind mix of dark humor, gothic aesthetics, and over-the-top characters. Michael Keaton is unforgettable in a role that became pure cult.

It’s one of those movies that screams “Burton” from the very first scene. Chaotic, hilarious, visually wild. I first saw it on VHS and have rewatched it countless times since. It’s like a creepy rollercoaster you never want to get off.

Edward Scissorhands (1990)

Edward is an unfinished creation by a lonely inventor, living alone in a spooky mansion — until a local woman discovers him and takes him home. The catch? His hands are made of scissors. What starts as a whimsical tale quickly turns into a powerful reflection on love, difference, and rejection.

This one hits right in the heart. It’s quietly beautiful and deeply sad. Johnny Depp is incredible, and the set design is classic Burton — somewhere between Gothic fairytale and pastel suburbia. No question, this is my favorite.

Batman Returns (1992)

After the massive success of his first Batman, Burton came back with a darker, more theatrical sequel. Gotham feels colder, the stakes higher, and we get two iconic villains: The Penguin and Catwoman. It’s more introspective, more twisted — but still spectacular.

For many of us (me included), this is the ultimate Batman movie. Not because it’s the most faithful to the comics, but because it’s so unapologetically Burton. It’s like a dark fable disguised as a superhero flick. That’s what makes it timeless.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, discovers Christmas and decides to make it his own… with delightfully spooky results. Though directed by Henry Selick, the story, characters, and entire vibe have Tim Burton’s fingerprints all over them.

The aesthetic, the songs, the characters — this movie is magic. I loved it as a kid and I still love it now. It’s one of those rare films that works no matter your age or the time of year. Halloween, Christmas, or just a random Tuesday.

Ed Wood (1994)

Burton takes a different turn here, crafting a biopic about the so-called “worst director in history.” But instead of mocking him, he paints Ed Wood as a dreamer — a wildly passionate filmmaker surrounded by lovable misfits. Shot in black and white, it’s pure gold.

This one’s for the cinephiles. Johnny Depp nails it, and Martin Landau as Bela Lugosi is unforgettable. It’s a quirky love letter to low-budget cinema and to anyone who dares to follow their weird, beautiful dreams.

Sleepy Hollow (1999)

A loose adaptation of Washington Irving’s tale, this version follows Ichabod Crane investigating a series of murders committed by the Headless Horseman. It’s creepy, stylish, and drenched in gothic atmosphere from the first frame.

Sleepy Hollow is peak Burton. You can almost smell the fog and damp leaves. Johnny Depp brings just the right amount of eccentricity, and the blend of horror and mystery is just chef’s kiss. Perfect for a stormy night in.

Planet of the Apes (2001)

Burton took a swing at rebooting this sci-fi classic. In his version, a pilot crashes on a planet ruled by hyper-intelligent apes. The visuals are impressive, but the movie sparked a lot of mixed opinions.

Honestly? Not my favorite. You can see Burton’s style in the costume design and atmosphere, but the story doesn’t quite land. Still, it’s a visually interesting detour in his filmography — worth a watch if you’re curious.

Big Fish (2003)

This emotional tale follows a man trying to understand his father, a master storyteller who may or may not be exaggerating every detail of his life. It’s filled with circus acts, giants, and magical realism — all wrapped in a father-son relationship that hits hard.

This one surprised me. I expected whimsy, but got hit with feelings instead. It’s a softer, more personal Burton, and honestly? It’s one of his most moving works. I still think about it every time I hear a wild family story.

Corpse Bride (2005)

While practicing his vows in the woods, a nervous groom accidentally proposes to a corpse… who accepts. What follows is a beautiful journey between the world of the living and the dead, full of charm, humor, and stunning animation.

Only Burton could make the afterlife this heartwarming. The stop-motion is gorgeous, the characters are lovable, and Danny Elfman’s score ties it all together. It’s my go-to when I need something spooky but sweet.

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)

In this musical horror tale, a barber returns to London seeking revenge — with a razor in hand and a dark plan involving meat pies. It’s theatrical, bloody, and deliciously twisted, with Burton going full Gothic opera.

Not for the faint of heart, but absolutely stunning. Depp and Helena Bonham Carter are perfectly cast, and the visuals are rich and moody. If you like your musicals with a side of murder, this is the one.